NAVIGATING THE MURKY WATERS: THE LACK OF GLOBAL CONSENSUS ON IN-WATER HULL CLEANING REGULATIONS

The Biofouling Conundrum

Every time a ship calls at a port, it unwittingly transports foreign invasive species on its submerged hull—a phenomenon known as biofouling. These hitchhikers can wreak havoc on local ecosystems, threatening biodiversity and disrupting marine habitats. Simultaneously, biofouling increases drag, reduces fuel efficiency by up to 35%, and contributes to higher fuel bills and CO2 emissions. The cumulative effect is a significant impact on both the environment and the economy, making the need for effective hull cleaning more critical than ever.

THE NEED FOR A GLOBAL STANDARD

Environmental Impact

In-water hull cleaning must strike a delicate balance between removing biofouling and minimizing environmental harm. When biofouling organisms are removed, they must be captured and properly disposed of to prevent them from re-entering the marine environment. Without stringent regulations, the risk of spreading invasive species and pollutants remains high. A global standard would emphasize best practices for capturing and handling these materials, thereby protecting marine ecosystems worldwide.

Economic Efficiency

The logistical challenges of dry docking for hull cleaning are significant. Dry docks are not only limited in number but are also often located far from key shipping routes, leading to increased operational costs and downtime for vessels. In-water cleaning offers a practical alternative, allowing ships to be cleaned without the need for dry docking. This method reduces both operational costs and the environmental footprint associated with long voyages to distant dry docks. A unified global standard would streamline the process, making in-water cleaning a more viable and widely accepted practice.

Administrative Challenges

The absence of a global standard creates confusion and inefficiency. Ports and shipowners struggle to identify service providers who meet varying regional standards. This lack of uniformity complicates the process of vetting and selecting qualified cleaning companies. A global standard would provide a clear framework, ensuring that all service providers adhere to the same high standards of environmental and operational performance. This would simplify the decision-making process for ports and shipowners alike.

REGULATORY DILEMMA

Fragmented Approaches

Some regions, such as Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, and California, have implemented their own biofouling regulations. These regional efforts, while commendable, contribute to a fragmented regulatory landscape. Shipowners must navigate a complex web of regulations, each with its own requirements and compliance procedures. This fragmentation not only increases administrative burdens but also creates uncertainty and inconsistency in enforcement.

Promotion vs. Environmental Concerns

Economic pressures often drive the promotion of in-water cleaning methods. However, without robust environmental safeguards, these practices can cause more harm than good. Inadequate capture of biofouling materials can lead to the release of invasive species and pollutants, undermining the very ecosystems the regulations aim to protect. Effective regulation must balance economic considerations with stringent environmental protections, ensuring that in-water cleaning is both cost-effective and ecologically responsible.

POTENTIAL SOLUTIONS

Global Guidelines

BIMCO (the world’s largest shipping association) is spearheading efforts to develop global guidelines for in-water hull cleaning. These guidelines aim to harmonize practices across regions, reducing CO2 emissions and protecting marine environments. By establishing clear standards for the capture and disposal of biofouling materials, these guidelines can ensure that in-water cleaning is conducted in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Transparency and Accountability

A global standard would enhance transparency in the industry. Ports and shipowners could more easily identify compliant cleaning companies, fostering a culture of accountability. Reporting requirements and inspection protocols would ensure that all parties adhere to the established standards, providing assurance that in-water cleaning is conducted responsibly. This transparency would also facilitate the monitoring and enforcement of compliance, further protecting marine ecosystems.

Balancing Priorities

Regulators face the challenge of balancing economic interests with environmental protection. In-water cleaning can be both efficient and eco-friendly if conducted according to best practices. By prioritizing both economic and environmental objectives, regulators can develop policies that support sustainable shipping practices. Collaboration among stakeholders—regulators, shipowners, cleaning companies, and environmental groups—is essential to achieving this balance.

NAVIGATING THE FUTURE

The lack of a global consensus on in-water hull cleaning regulations presents significant challenges. However, with concerted efforts from all stakeholders, a balanced approach that prioritizes both environmental stewardship and economic viability can be achieved. As we navigate the complexities of these regulations, it is imperative that we work together to protect our oceans and enhance the efficiency of global shipping. Only through collaboration and commitment can we sail toward cleaner, more efficient waters.